Weekly Picks (1/18 – 1/24)

Ghalia Volt

Photo courtesy of Noe Cugny

Experience electrifying blues rock vibes as Ghalia Volt, the Belgian powerhouse of a singer, guitarist, drummer, and songwriter, takes the stage live at the Double Dealer Cocktail Bar at the Orpheum Theater on Thursday, January 18, starting at 9:00 p.m. With her impressive discography, including the chart-topping “Mississippi Blend,” Ghalia Volt promises a night of soulful tunes that will resonate through one of the best underground bars in New Orleans.  Learn more about the venue here.

 

The 8th annual New Orleans Cigar Box Guitar Festival is a 3-day extravaganza featuring 21 exhilarating acts taking place from Thursday, January 18, through Sunday, January 20, at the New Orleans Jazz Museum. The lineup includes Erin Coburn, Cigar Box Serenaders, Ghalia Volt, Lil’ Jimmy Reed and more. The event also features in depth explorations of its roots with artist talks featuring Chris Thomas King and Louisiana folk artist Charles Gillam. Instrument builders will gather Friday to compete for prizes. Learn more or purchase tickets here.

 

Tipitina’s presents a free show featuring the Brass-A-Holics on Friday, January 19, at 9:00 p.m. The New Orleans-based band is renowned for their unique fusion of the city’s rich brass culture and the energetic sounds of Washington D.C.’s go-go funk. Whether delving into original compositions or reinventing popular hits through fiery improvisations, the band creates an electric atmosphere that transcends genres and captivates audiences. Learn more here.

 

Embark on an immersive intergalactic adventure as Boba Fete: A Space Themed Costume Party makes its cosmic return after the Krewe Of Chewbacchus parade on Saturday, January 20, at The Toulouse Theatre starting at 9:00 p.m. Join the revelry under the cosmic glow as Bakey’s Brew, The Budz and The Big Werm take the stage, ensuring a musical odyssey that resonates throughout the galaxy. Visuals by Xander Stewart, aka Captain Sasquatch, promise to elevate the experience to celestial heights.  Be sure to don your most stellar space attire and get ready for a night that transcends the boundaries of time and space.  The Intergalactic Krewe of Chewbacchus parade is a sci-fi themed parade that welcomes all super nerds. You can view the parade route here and secure your tickets for this unofficial afterparty  here.

 

Get ready for an international musical experience during the Across The Pond Guitar Festival on Saturday, January 20, starting at 7:00 p.m., at Chickie Wah Wah. The festival unites European, Canadian, and New Orleans musicians for an evening of guitar virtuosity. Gavino Loche from Italy, an award-winning acoustic guitar phenom, will showcase his unique style combining percussive sounds, tapping, and incredible fingerstyle arrangements. Adrian Raso from Canada, known for his hybrid of jazz and rockabilly, will take you on a musical journey from Django Reinhardt to modern Americana. The lineup also features veteran guitarist Jimmy Robinson from New Orleans, renowned for his intricate compositions. With a series that has expanded to cities like Amsterdam, Atlanta and Bay St. Louis, this winter installment promises an unforgettable night of remarkable talent and musicianship. Advance tickets ar $20 and are available at ChickieWahWah.com.

 

Join a celebration of musical excellence at the 27th Annual Best of The Beat Music Awards on January 24, 2024, at Tipitina’s. A program of the non-profit OffBeat Music & Cultural Arts Foundation, this  event recognizes and honors local musicians and bands for their outstanding contributions. Presented by the Gia Maione Prima Foundation, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation, Tipitina’s, WWL-TV and OffBeat.com, the awards ceremony features a special tribute to the legendary David R. Batiste, Sr. The evening also promises unforgettable performances by The Gladiators, Leo Nocentelli, Loose Cattle, Erica Falls, The Rumble and more. The event starts at 6 p.m. with doors opening at 5:30 p.m. Learn more or purchase tickets here.

 

Weekly Picks (1/18 – 1/24)